Livonia: Beloved Fred passed away suddenly at the age of 81 on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. Fred will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Survived by loving wife and best friend, Nadia, daughter Elizabeth Henderson (Dave), sons Chris (Theresa), Don (Kim), and sister, Natalie Castle (predeceased by George). Chief is also survived by his grandchildren Kathryn Gardner, Shannon Gardner, Heather Henderson, Bret Henderson, Lauren Gardner, and Julia Gardner.
Fred was a proud veteran of the US Army with rank of Captain. Dr. Gardner was a Full Professor at RIT and Associate Dean of the College of Continuing Education. In 1988, he received the distinguished Eisenhart Award for Outstanding Teaching. Following retirement from RIT Fred worked as Case Manager for Livingston County Counseling Services. He also authored numerous articles, a book on volunteerism and served as a longtime member of the Livonia School Board.
A Celebration of Fred’s Life will be held at the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home Inc., 21 Big Tree Street, Rte 15 & 20A, Livonia, NY on Saturday, November 11th from 11am-12:30pm, where services will be held following calling hours at 12:30pm. In lieu of flowers we ask that everyone consider volunteering or donating to a local charity. To send a condolence or share a memory please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
Calling Hours – Celebration of Life Gathering: 11am-12:30pm
Service – 12:30pm
Mrs. Gardner, I just saw the notice of your husbands passing. I send my condolences. I remember how kind both of you were when I was younger and babysat your children. You put up with a lot from me, I remember always falling asleep and you never able to wake me up when you called. I pray that during this holiday season you will be able to find comfort in your memories of wonderful times in the past. God bless you and your family.
Hello Nadia and Family: I was so sad to hear that Fred had passed away while we were at our town. We would have been there for his Celebration of Life Service. I intersected with Fred both professionally and personally, and always thought he was one of the most kindest men I have ever met in both of those worlds. He always had a ready smile and he always appreciated work. We will miss him greatly. My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Mrs. Gardner, Beth, and families – my deepest condolences.
Love,
Sharon Forsythe Hinkson
To Fred’s Family: Fred truly left this earth a better place. We were colleagues for many years at Livingston County Counseling Services. Fred’s warn and non judgmental approach to people had a healing quality. I treasure my memories of our time together; the Thursday lunches; the many stories we shared. Imagine the number of lives that Fred touched in helping others become what they desired to be. That’s his legacy for us to follow.
I’m saddened that we will no longer hear Fred’s kind, gentle words of wisdom at Lima am meeting. He was much loved and will be missed by all.
Prayers to his family whom he loved deeply.
My deepest condolences to your entire family, Beth. Praying for peace and comfort for your whole family and especially your Mom.
Much love,
Patty Hanna Kohl
He was a kind & gentle man. RIP, God Bless his family.
My deepest condolences to Nadia, Don, and the rest of the Gardner family. May you all know some level of peace and comfort as you navigate your grief. I remember Fred as being so kind, always with a smile on his face. Go with God…
A true gentleman from the Hayes family in Ireland
So sorry to hear of Fred’s passing. The kind smile, the little twinkle in his eyes, and constant concern and care for others will be missed by many. Farewell, neighbor. Kathy Wesley